Cover Letters

Cover letters introduce you to a potential employer, indicating your interest in their open position. They are sent to employers along with your resume, giving you an opportunity to offer further insight into your personality through your writing style and communication skills.

If you are applying for multiple positions, each cover letter should be written specifically for each individual organization.

Basic Cover Letter Format

Direct Contact Name Title Employer/Company Name Street City, State Zip

Dear (Use contact name, or Hiring Manager),

Body of letter should contain 3-4 paragraphs.

Paragraph 1 should identify your interest in applying for a specific job and how you heard about it.

Paragraph 2 should generate the reader’s interest in you by referring to an enclosed resume and include additional information, expanding upon your qualifications and there connection to the position.

Paragraph 3 should be short, positive, and ask for action without being overly aggressive or “pushy” in tone. Example: “I look forward to meeting with you soon, to further discuss how my skills and experience will benefit your team.”

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Career Services and Professional Development

Career Services and Professional Development (CSPD) works to develop all students, through the phases of their career and professional progression, supporting the creation, evaluation, and implementation of career and professional decisions and plans. Further, we foster a career community that is engaged in creating and increasing career and professional opportunities.